Private Primeday In the Park with Dominique

[Sela Basran]

THE SENATE DISTRICT - THEED
NABERRIE MUNICIPAL PARK
​

The sun was warm on that early spring day. This was Theed at its loveliest, the stone of the oldest buildings a beautiful gold, the verdigris roofs as verdant as spring itself. Birds flew overhead, some of which Sela hadn't seen for months since the beginning of the cold season. It was easy to believe that the planet was heading for brighter days, even if things inside the buildings painted a slightly grim picture. But Sela Basran was there in hopes that cooler heads could prevail and avoid a something happening that could be... possibly drastic.

Sela -- as the Jedi Liaison to the Senate -- had a pod in the building, but not an office. Something about occupying real estate in the Senate was a bridge too far. Senators who wished to consult or request mediation were welcome to invite Sela to their offices, or to visit her at Shiraya, or to walk in the park as she had arranged to do with her meeting today. But her meeting today was not just any Senator. The Chancellor herself had requested a conversation with the Jedi Liaison, and so Sela had made herself available. Since the weather looked good, they had decided on the park as a good place to meet.

Sela gathered her shawl closer around her as a breeze swept over the park, and she stepped up to queue at a little wheeled cart from which she often bought tea, centering herself in the Force.

Dominique Vexx


​

 

[Dominique Vexx]

Dominique strode casually through the park. She did not go out of her way to shake everyone's hand or kiss every baby in sight; but to those who eye she did catch along the way, the Chancellor nodded her hand, smiled, and if they were near even shook their hand if they extended their own. The Denonite was not desperate to 'make friends' with strangers, but she wasn't allergic to them either. That being said, it was hardly her comfort zone to engage the masses so openly. A firm discipline among generals and rulers alike could apply with civilians as well to keep them from noticing; but that didn't mean she enjoyed the attention. Control, yes, but not attention.

Things would have been easier if Aurelian had remain the Chancellor with her operating in the shadows.

Well, easier for her. Perhaps things had worked out for the best considering that little diplomatic faux pas with the Mandalorians.

Soon, the white and purple adorned woman drew near the cart where Sela Basran stood acquiring a cup of tea. "Master Basran. Beautiful day, isn't it?" An ice breaker of two meeting out in the open. An opportunity for the woman to brace herself for dealing with the mercurial political type -- at least that was how Dominique imagined the Jedi saw them.

 

[Sela Basran]

THE SENATE DISTRICT - THEED
NABERRIE MUNICIPAL PARK
​

Sela had almost reached the head of the queue when there grew a little hubbub behind her. She half-turned to see the Chancellor -- a distinctive figure in her own right, even if she weren't being cautiously approached like some kind of celebrity. She smiled serenely as the Chancellor approached and offered a slight nod. Respectful without being genuflecting.

"It is a beautiful day," Sela agreed. She didn't name Dominique then -- not wanting to draw attention that wasn't already on her. "It looks like we may be approaching an early spring." The person ahead of her took their paper cup and left, leaving Sela at the front of the line. "Can I tempt you? My treat." She nodded toward the cart menu. When it was settled, Sela placed her order, paid, and took it -- distributing Dominique's to her if she indeed had agreed.

The two women wandered away from the cart.

"Do you prefer Chancellor? Or Your Excellency? Or ma'am? Or some other title?" Sela asked, her tone light but clearly signaling that she meant to be respectful of the woman and of the office she occupied. "You can call me Sela -- or Master Basran, if it is your preference." Sela lifted her cup to her lips and took a silent sip. The woman at the stall always got her tea just right. It made these sojourns to the capital all the more pleasant.

"Now: can I help?"

Dominique Vexx


​

 

[Dominique Vexx]

Dominique regarded Sela Basran from behind her translucent lilac glareshades for a second. "I'd be delighted. Thank you." It certainly couldn't hurt, and she was curious the manner in which she had the beverage drawn up. Despite what some though, an order might just be an order; unless it involved something truly remarkable and then you might learn something about the person.

A soft chuckle followed the Jedi's kindness. "Just Dominique... Sela. This isn't a formal meeting." Cup of tea in hand, she took a second to take a sip of her own. A soft hum followed as the well brewed refreshment warmed her from within. "Events are at risk of outpacing us, if I may be honest, Sela. Moorja was just the beginning, I fear. I'm certain other governments will feign disinterest, and my efforts to demonstrate the Republic isn't full of milksops might cause them to think twice, but inevitably they will try again. And then there is the matter of Senate proposals of late drawing on the Jedi Order despite its efforts to remain separate from the political engine."

There was a moment's pause as Dominique flashed Sela a smirk. "I think it's important that the High Republic government and Jedi Order maintain an open and honest means of communicating, as a result. Actions either group takes may have ramifications for the other, and I have seen what a body Senate can do to a Jedi Order. I think we both desire to see history doesn't repeat itself."

The Galactic Alliance had made certain choices that had drawn friction between factions. At the time, it had been beneficial. Dominique did not need Jedi investigators constantly snooping around Denon as the Corporate Authorities continued to engage in war crimes or illicit activities. Things had changed drastic since those days, however.

 

[Sela Basran]

THE SENATE DISTRICT - THEED
NABERRIE MUNICIPAL PARK
​

The Jedi Master inclined her head with a kind smile. "Very well. Dominique." Sela cupped the tea between her hands, enjoying the warmth as she listened to the Chancellor's assessment of the situation that lay before them. Yes, things were reaching quite a pretty pass, and the knives seemed to be out for the Republic. Moorja had been concerning, to say the least, and the Jedi were still getting to the bottom of it. It had been ugly. It promised to get uglier still.

"Agreed, Dominique. And I am concerned that the public perception of a rift between the government and the Jedi may further embolden bad actors looking to exploit it," Sela mused thoughtfully. "For the record -- and I can speak only for myself, not the entire Order -- while I found the implications of Senator Pallopides' bill to be... troubling ...I viewed it as an excess of enthusiasm rather than some effort on her part to corral or handle the Order. And I believe her willingness to change directions speaks to her intent, as well."

She took a sip of her drink and surveyed the gentle rolling slope of the grass knolls in the park. Dark eyes took it all in. It was hard to believe that such an idyllic place was host to something so pedestrian as politics. But that was the job.

"Communication is so important," she concurred with the Chancellor. "If for no other purpose than to reduce the need for legislation to achieve what could well be done with a simple request and explanation. I suppose there are... political considerations when it comes to the optics. Perhaps there are colleagues of yours that would benefit from the appearance of friction -- or the appearance of needing to coerce the Order into doing something, whether they would have agreed if asked."

The Chancellor's commentary on the Galactic Alliance and her own former spiritual home, the New Jedi Order, was spot on. There was a delicate balance to these interactions. Cooperation could so easily look like collaboration in the wrong hands. "We are eager to be constructive," Sela said cautiously. "And we must all do our part. But we should be clear; the Jedi Order is not as it was in the Old Republic, or even as I understand it as it was in the Galactic Alliance. The current numbers simply do not allow a dispersed, broad, and sustained peacekeeping effort. It's not obstructionism, it's just math."

Dominique Vexx


​

 

[Dominique Vexx]

Dominique nodded as Sela describe how she'd viewed a recent session in the Senate chamber. Ayumi was enthusiastic, and held fast that people were rational being with a desire to do the right thing. On the other hand, the glareshade-wearing Denonite was more pragmatic. People were often irrational and self-serving. That didn't keep her from recognizing when another seemed to have a beneficial effect on an industry or planet, however. If anything, Dominique enjoyed the ways Ayumi and Sibylla were not inclined to view the galaxy with the same lilac shades that she, herself, did. They held a necessary charm with sway of their own.

"Some would see the Order as little more than a tool. A fulcrum upon which to leverage their own aims. A... brand with recognition among the masses to tout in support of their cause, or to decry in hampering it." A soft bark of laughter interrupted her thoughts. "As the Order exists outside of the government there would be a certain amount of carelessness in how it might be referenced. A tool lent and broken is not so great a loss as one bought and owned."

A pause to draw in and expel a deep breath followed. "I have no intention of buying the Order or using it until it breaks," Dominique added to answer what might remain an otherwise unasked question. "I can temper the Senators' zeal, and not for a price. Your Order has contributed in its own way to this Republic and would be instrumental in its defense should the Sith strike. In whatever way you can. That alone is enough." Dominique turned to look at Sela with a smile. "Provided your field agents abide local laws in their pursuits." It couldn't be carte blanche for them to do as they will, but having them be outside the normal chain of command could be beneficial.

"Which is why I hope we can keep the lines of communication between us open. I can share concerns of the Republic with the Order, and you can pursue those you feel are in line with your philosophical designs. I can even offer material support as I did in the wake of Moorja. Your Healers and Knights are strong, but not inexhaustible." Dominique took a measured sip of her tea. "Would that be worth consideration?"

What if they refused? Dominique could hardly force them to agree. She couldn't even force them to accept shipments of bacta if they didn't want the appearance of owing her anything. What else could she offer to entice and reassure? The Republic needed them, and they needed the Republic. It could work if both sides allowed it.

Sela Basran​

 

[Sela Basran]

​

Sela listened carefully.

There was something refreshing about the Chancellor. Dominique Vexx did not seem to dissemble or to hide behind a guise. She did not seem to need to hide what she was. Sela did not necessarily agree with the Chancellor's classification of the Order in exactly those terms, but that she put it that way -- not dressing it up as some of the more loquacious senators might -- was of tremendous value to the Jedi Master.

"I tend to disagree," Sela said quietly, her voice good-natured, not quite solemn. "I feel much worse damaging something I have borrowed than something I have purchased for myself." She gave a small shrug and frowned thoughtfully. "It takes all kinds, I think, and -- as I am fond of telling my students -- there are not always right and wrong answers. But I do take your meaning, and I appreciate what you mean by it."

She took a sip of her tea and continued strolling alongside the Chancellor. She cast a glance sidelong at Dominique, eyebrows lifting a little. "Have you something to report, Dominique? If you are aware of misconduct -- or worse -- I would be happy to bring them to the Council."

Her offer of material support felt warm, but the hairs on the back of Sela's neck prickled. "I am certain such support would be appreciated," Sela began cautiously. "Provided we are aware of any expectations that may come along with them." She hoped it was clear that this was not meant as a slight -- that the Chancellor was some sort of opportunist -- but rather that Dominique Vexx understood at a molecular level about bottom lines, tit-for-tat, and consideration in the contractual sense. Sela didn't want to wander in with the wrong expectations.

Dominique Vexx


​

 

[Dominique Vexx]

Of course, a Jedi would believe it worse to break another's possessions. Dominique had grown up surrounded by people that believed otherwise; she knew how they thought. Sela might say she understood as well, but her moral center would deny true understanding of the matter. There was something far too emotional or reactionary to logic one's way through. Just one woman's thoughts.

"Oh, no, not at all," Dominique replied with Sela's subdued concern. "Merely establishing expectations, or perhaps reaffirming boundaries. I have no intention of utilizing the Order as a means of skirting the law, you see." Which should be reassuring after having just pointed out their extra-governmental status. No, she would never expect a Jedi Order to act in place of a private military contractor.

Dominique took another sip of the tea as Sela had a few expectations of her own to level-set. "Mm." Her golden eyes pivoted over to the other woman once more. "All strings are declared up front, Master Basran. Anything given in the wake of certain events without a pre-established arrangement are gifts. I have high hopes of this becoming a worthwhile partnership between the Republic and the Order, you see. And a healthy relationship isn't predicated on a strictly transactional basis."

"Actually, I'm quite interested in what the Jedi Order would desire from the High Republic. Not necessarily as far as product or favor, but... aspiration. How can I help ensure your people are free to contribute as they do best?"

Sela Basran​

 

[Sela Basran]

​

"Well," Sela began, her voice non-committal, almost casual, giving the joke a deadpan quality. "Tax exemptions go a long way. And continued use of the Shirayan Sanctuary, I am sure, would be much appreciated. But in all seriousness -- I believe the Jedi Order wants to be of use and, more to the point, to be consulted in matters where they could be of use." She hesitated a moment, taking a sip of the tea from her cup.

"There was a moment where there were some in my order felt that the Senate might order the Jedi into action. It was around the time that your wayward Corellian ambassador was detained by that disagreeable little Imperial terrier, Marlon Sularen." Sela canted her head to one side, considering her words. "The Charter of Unity, as you must be aware, gives the Senate that authority. But I cannot tell you the damage that would be done to the relationship between the Order and the Republic should such an option be implemented. Coercion -- before even given the chance to discuss or to agree? -- is not partnership. It rather smells of vassalage, actually."

Sela glanced sidelong at Dominique, eyebrows lifting a little. "And from what you have said, that is not the kind of relationship you are looking to maintain with the Order. I hope I have not misunderstood you."

Dominique Vexx

​

 

[Dominique Vexx]

Dominique smiled across at Sela as the woman spoke of tax exemption and use of the Temple. An amusing quip. If only that truly were the extent of their ambition. Well, not necessarily. They couldn't blame her for still remembering the role a different Jedi Order had nearly played in usurping control of her planet influencing her baser thoughts. A good jest, at any rate.

"You have not. Section Four, Paragraph Three is meant to be used in dire circumstances. I dare say the sort that pose an existential crisis to this Republic. Circumstances where such a demand would be less domineering and more a formality. I certainly wouldn't be surprised were the Order upset by any frivolous usage of it, and as Chancellor I can help prevent it should a charismatic element convince them to thoughtless action."

"At the risk of tipping my hand, it should go without saying that the Jedi Order is this Republic's greatest defense against Agents of the Sith. Their warriors are can fall to blasters like any other, but the amount of damage they can wrought before they do is far more than I care to imagine. Therefore it is absurd to allow politics to ruin our connection with the Order." Dominique would rely a bit on the Jedi's collective lack of interest in politics in admitting as much. It would also help determine if that presumption was in error before an emergency struck and she found out with the most unfortunate of timings.

"Naturally," Dominique smiled, "the Order does not want to be a mere tool in our arsenal, and won't stand around waiting to be called upon. Nor would I ask you to. Efforts to supply those in need and restore justice and order where it is needed are to be championed, not stymied. If there is anything I and this Republic can do to help, it is the least we can do." There would be times Dominique might ask them to lighten their touch or avoid certain matters, however. The Jedi might have good intentions, but there could be political fallout from their intervention that would be far worse than doing nothing at all. If they weren't mindful of such things, they could count on the politicians to help supply them with such information.

Sela Basran​

 

[Sela Basran]

SHIRAYA'S SANCTUARY
MASTER BASRAN'S QUARTERS
​

Sela regarded the Chancellor carefully, her dark eyes guarded. The discussion was the right temperature, she thought, but she wondered what details the Chancellor knew about the Order. "As I am sure you know, Dominique," Sela began cautiously, "and I have no way of knowing for sure what the numbers are, but -- it is clear to me that the dark is currently eclipsing the light. The Order's numbers are not expansive. Meanwhile, the Sith Order and the Sith Covenant grow ever stronger. And I have heard that the Mandalorians are not free of Sith influence, either."

She turned her tea cup in her hands, not quite an anxious gesture, but one that demonstrated continued thought. "I am not telling you anything you do not know about those dark sided orders, I am certain. And the Jedi Order will do what it can to stand against them. But our numbers are not what they could be. And I want you to be in possession of all the relevant facts."

It was not her place to advise the Chancellor of the High Republic on politics or policy, but Sela Basran felt strongly that the Chancellor would be wise to add more arrows to her quiver -- not that she had none, but more would always be better when it came to defense. "Perhaps, before push comes to shove, we should have a broader conversation about whether and how Jedi interact with the other forces the Republic has at its disposal?"

Dominique Vexx


​

 

[Dominique Vexx]

The Chancellor regarded Sela as she spoke frankly of the Jedi Order's potential capabilities. After she finished, Dominique smiled and turned to look straight ahead for a moment. "An encroaching, hostile force often has the advantage, Sela. They don't need to be concerned with the problems of tomorrow, or the plights of the powerless. Even if the Sith Order were few in number they would be a threat. And that presumes they attack us with force of arms."

She turned to look over at Sela once more. "We must have that conversation. To be prepared. The day will come. It always does. Whether the Order is made of a few hundred or a few thousand, what matters is that it is there when the people needs them most. And -- if you don't mind me saying so -- as long as your allies are as committed to the battle as yourselves, we'll win the day." Some might call that arrogance. Considering the alternative was capitulation to a hostile, invading force and the collapse of their way of life, however, Dominique simply saw it as inevitable. They won... or they wouldn't be around for it to matter.

"Besides," her smile grew, "the Republic isn't about to sit back and wait for Dark Side-wielding Forces to rise up against us. They don't have the benefit of a surprise attack." This wasn't a Sith War millennia ago. "Measures are underway, Sela, to enable the common soldier to stand up against the Sith. They might not be as effective, and many will die," the Chancellor nodded, "but the Sith will find they are not so easily overrun."

Sela Basran​

 

[Sela Basran]

​

Sela frowned thoughtfully. There was much to be relieved about in her conversation with the Chancellor. She was aware, she was prepared, and she was competent. The High Republic could be a lot less fortunate in its choice of leadership. "I am relieved we are singing from the same hymnal," she told Dominique confidentially. In her heart of hearts, Sela wasn't sure that the other leading contender for Chancellor would have been as sympatico.

But to that Sela would not stretch to verbalize. It was not for the Jedi Master to state an opinion on it.

"There have been some other matters that my colleagues on the Jedi High Council would like to discuss," Sela said, her tone conversational. "May I call your office to arrange a time for that? I feel certain that these topics are not a matter for a casual walk in the park."

Nor, really, was the matter of Jedi readiness to fight the dark, but at least the women had been discreet. It would be slightly more difficult to maintain that discretion when it was a group of Jedi and the Chancellor.

Dominique Vexx


​

 

[Dominique Vexx]

For the Chancellor's part, she was gratified to have such a considerate Jedi Master as a companion for these discussions. Yes, she'd been largely conveying what the Jedi Council wanted to hear, but not because it was all for show. Relationships required maintenance, upkeep, and a little reaffirmation now and then. Especially when you had a Senate with a few members that might not think of them as people and more as tools to be lobbed at their enemies. That Sela wasn't unduly waxing on about their troubles or implying the Order needed 'a little something' to help maintain such amicable relations was also heartening. Not that a Jedi ever would, of course. Of course.

"Any time, Sela. That is why the Office of the Chancellor exists. To coordinate between groups and iron out any wrinkles in an otherwise colorful tapestry." Entirely true. Her secretary knew her calendar and what could be moved around to make room for someone as prestigious as the Jedi Order.

Their size didn't perturb Dominique. Naturally, she would like if they were larger, but that came with its own interesting challenges didn't it? An army of Light-side warriors with an ax to grind about morality. And there were Jedi that had an ax to grind out there. The Chancellor wasn't going to worry about 'what ifs' though. No point dwelling on it; they were what they were, and the Republic was in need of what they could provide. It was her job to ensure they had the resources to provide it even if some of them mistook her efforts as 'bribes.'

Sela Basran​